Mark Maciolek
For the past four decades Mark Maciolek has lived the life of a true artist, one whose creative work shows imagination and sensitivity to its subject. Years have passed since Maciolek’s life was filled with following and admiring the work of extraordinary illustrators like Barry Moser, Wendell Minor, and the prodigious Patricia Polacco, along with many others. It was here that the love of creativity had its roots.
Whether pen & ink, watercolors, acrylics, cold wax or traditional oils; Maciolek continues to focus his interests on ordinary things that are embedded and hidden in the imperfect. A love for things that are timeworn, weathered, or half-broken, have been entrenched in Mark’s life and even embodied in the restoration of their family’s 1832 homestead. Lately, Maciolek’s interests can be found in that of old barns that cry-out for a second chance–if only saved on canvas. Or grand Belted Galloways & sublime Bisson–framed by fields dotted with stone walls or wide-open prairies that make painting to die for. Admiring the charming beauty of 18th and early 19th Century homes and outbuildings has driven the artist to capture their essence as they, for many, struggle for their story to be told and remembered.
Maciolek looks forward to an exciting 2024, one that celebrates many firsts: the showcasing of his one-of-a-kind Off the Wall Studio, where one will see the birth and evolution of several of his latest projects, along with the opening of his Main Street art gallery.
Maciolek’s work has recently been accepted into Arts of Tolland’s spring Juried Show which begins Sunday, April 7th, from 1:00-3:00 p..m. and runs through April 28th.
Mark is very excited to have over 30 paintings featured in a solo exhibition at the Arts of Tolland, 22 Tolland Green, Tolland, CT. The opening reception begins Friday, May 3rd, from 6:30 to 8:30 and runs through May. Gallery is open Wednesdays 3:00-5:00 and Saturdays 10:00 to 2:00. Questions: 860-490-0944
Artist Statement
I am fascinated and intrigued with capturing light and shadow and how they appear throughout landscapes, barns, and historic homes. Although being described as a “colorist,” I am influenced by the extraordinary work of tonalists Dennis Sheehan and Stewart Davis, appreciating the simplicity and precision they bring to the easel and the art world. Also, artists such as the talented Robert LaDuke and Susan Abbot, who both turn color upside down and throw caution to the wind; empowering others who see the same world to do the same. Other fine artists like Jennifer Hanson Roli and Lynette Goric have taught me to attempt to capture that fleeting moment; working confidently, letting bold brush strokes lead the way with sincere credence.
Finally, understanding the life of an artist is one that leaves you unshielded, exposed, and vulnerable, while at the same time honorable and, although you may never hear it, commendable.
As a visual artist, one feels the longing to create daily, while at the same time agonizing over one's own creativity…like a double edge sword–you can’t live with it or without it. Finding the right home for one’s work is equally as arduous, for me at least; realizing part of me is going along for the ride–and not at all wanting to leave the studio. This is where you come in.
